Choosing your career (from a ONE year old college student)!
The results of 12th board have come and many of you are in the boat of what branch and college to choose. Sameeksha Bharat, a first-year civil engineering student from IIT Roorkee, a pioneering institute in civil engineering dating back to the British era., shares her view on the topic in this piece phrased in a question-answer format. She was exactly in this state a year ago, and she is eager to pass on her wisdom with a one year hindsight.
1. What should we focus on while choosing a college and branch? How did you decide?
You are at a big crossroad-one that decides where and how you’ll grow over the next 4 years. Here’s the first thing: don't blindly chase what’s trending. Instead, ask yourself:
Do I prefer to be in a reputed institution that offers broader exposure? Or do I want to focus on a specific branch, even if the college is relatively new?
I chose Civil Engineering at IIT Roorkee over Computer Science in a newer IIT. At first, I doubted the decision-especially when friends around me had taken up circuit branches in well-known state colleges. But over time, I realized that college reputation, peer environment, and overall learning culture matter just as much as (if not more than) the branch.
2. With so much peer pressure and noise around, how should we make an informed decision?
Peer pressure is real. Everyone around you seems to be going for Computer Science or aiming for “placements.” But you must zoom out a little. Think long-term. What kind of work would you enjoy doing every day? What topics excite you when you read or hear about them?
If you're unsure, speak to seniors, professors, and people in the industry. Don’t just look at salaries, but look at skills, lifestyle, growth, and satisfaction. Choosing a branch you find interesting will help you sustain the motivation to do well and explore it deeply.
Take a look at the article and video by Prof. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras . As he says, every field has potential in a growing economy like India-and it's true. Whether it’s Civil, BioTech, Mechanical, or Design, there's room for innovation and impact everywhere.
3. Share your experience of exploring a new place and culture
I moved from Chennai to Roorkee. Initially, the cultural change, food, and weather overwhelmed me. But that discomfort became a huge growth point. Living away from home taught me independence, flexibility, and how to deal with diverse people and perspectives. You grow immensely when you step out of your comfort zone. So, don’t be afraid of moving to a new state or region-it might just make you stronger and wiser.
4. What if I end up in a 'less preferred' branch?
When I started, I thought Civil Engineering had limited scope. I was wrong.
In just one year, I’ve seen how Civil Engineering today is deeply interlinked with tech: data science, machine learning, and automation. Whether it is using GPS and computer vision for smart construction or integrating ML to monitor pollution and traffic patterns, modern Civil Engineering is far from traditional.
And here’s the exciting part-you don’t need to be in Computer Science to learn coding or data handling. I’ve learned C++, Python, and basic ML as part of my projects. If you gain computing skills within your core branch, you are actually more valuable-because the world needs domain experts who can also use tech. Have a look at this article published in the earlier issue of our newsletter for more insights on Computer Science programs.
5. So how should we make our choice?
Here are some thumb rules:
The “best” branch is the one that keeps you curious and challenged.
You can acquire skills from any field, what matters is initiative. If you put in effort, and do well, you can shine in any field.
The reputation of the college can play a meaningful role in shaping the opportunities that come your way.
Exposure to new cultures is a bonus that makes you more adaptable.
So choose wisely and not emotionally, not under pressure. Think for yourself. Talk to mentors. Explore options. Trust that no path is a dead end if you’re willing to learn and grow.
If you're confused today, that’s okay. A year ago, I was too. But I found my footing and so will you.
